TAVERNS which don’t comply with liquor laws were shut down in Thokoza at the weekend.
This follows the bumper to bumper special operation by the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department, who among other things checked safety measures in taverns.
Four illegal operators were arrested and liquor worth about R700 000 was seized.
EMPD spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Wilfred Kgasago said most taverns operate illegally across the kasis and owners don’t follow the liquor by-laws.
The four arrested operators were detained at Thokoza cop shop. They appeared at the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court yesterday charged with operating taverns without permits.
Tavern owner Charles Ngwenya (35) said he was shocked to see an
army of cops at his place.
“I didn’t know what they were looking for until they started removing stock from the tavern.
“Police then informed us that the tavern was operating illegally.
“They also pointed out to us that there was no fire extinguisher and the two toilets next to each other were not even marked male or female. I understand their concerns because on many occasions I have found women in men’s toilets, and vice versa,” said Charles.
Nolwazi Khambule (34) applauded the crackdown on illegal taverns.
“Sometimes these taverns pump up the music the whole night, making it difficult for residents to sleep. I wish police could also shut down the noisy pubs in residential areas.”
